Number 166	ABEC South - 4th Wednesday Luncheon Talk	May 26, 2010
Controlling Air Leakage and Rain Penetration in Building Restoration with Vapor Permeable Air Barriers

Presenter: Marc Tropper, Bakor/Henry Topic: The goal of a designer should be the elimination of uncontrolled air leakage through the building’s exterior envelope.  The retrofit of existing buildings can provide unique building science challenges since existing wall components must be incorporated into the solution.  In many instances, existing vapor barriers or insulation must remain in place; therefore, limiting the use of traditional non-permeable air barrier membranes.  The use of vapor permeable air barriers can offer designers more design flexibility in the placement of air barriers within existing exterior wall assemblies. Furthermore, membranes which can combine the function of a weather resistive barrier and an air barrier can minimize the impact of water infiltration while providing a more energy efficient wall assembly.  Part of today’s presentation will cover the “Growing Use of Vapor Permeable Air Barriers in Building Envelope Restoration Bio: Marc Tropper, P.Eng graduated from the University of Ottawa in 1991 with a civil engineering degree and is currently a professional engineer licensed with the PEO. Marc began his career as a building envelope consultant with IRC Consultants in Ottawa where he was involved with design and inspection of both new and remedial construction projects related to the building envelope (roofing, exterior walls and waterproofing)   Marc has been with Bakor/Henry Company for over 13 years and is currently its Director of Product Management for Air Barrier and Waterproofing products.  He specializes in the development of new products and the technical improvements of existing products.  Marc also has the responsibility of undertaking analysis of markets and economic research as it relates to Henry’s product portfolio.             Remember to Pre-register HERE (Andrew Ross, 255.7946) or  email Andrew Ross. Next year in Winnipeg: 13th Canadian Conference on Building Science &Technology In addition to the above link, which lays out important dates and guidance on papers, see more links below

2010 ABEC memberships and renewals are due.  Please fill out the Membership Form (downloadable from www.ABECSouth.org) and mail in with your payment.   Attendance at March talk by Randy Kiez was  41